Flying Start Degree programme - FS2 Milton Keynes Review

I work in assurance as an auditor. I work with external audit clients and I have the opportunity to create valuable relationships as part of my placement. I am responsible for performing audit testing and I get coached by my seniors on the job in relation to how to perform the work, which is very useful.

I have learned a lot of new skills while I have been on the placement programme between Reading university and PwC. Examples of those would include my enhanced communication skills, confidence when talking to the client, developing my professional scepticism, learning how to perform quality work and documentation, developing my technical capabilities and organisational skills.

I really enjoy the programme and I am grateful for being accepted onto it. It has provided me with the opportunity to work for a top accounting firm and get valuable experience while still at university. It also has contributed to my accounting qualification. The people in my office are very supportive and always available for a chat if you have difficulties. The environment is nice and coaching is not only encouraged but demanded of people, so I really recommend it for learning purposes.

The programme is structured very well. It consists of four years at university where during the first year you spend all the time at university learning the basics of accounting. Then in second, third and fourth year you study during the first term, go for a placement during the second and come back for exams once you have already gained adequate work experience. It really helps!

I genuinely receive so much support from my employer. Upon arriving, I have a number of people looking after my progression and wellbeing. I have a flying start champion who has done the programme before and knows what I feel like, I have a career coach from my office who helps me develop my skills and points me in the right direction or is there to support me emotionally, and I have a FS representative for university from PwC who is in charge of answering all programme related queries for all students on placement.

My training provider is ICAEW. They provide all books used in university for free and they provide exam preparation materials. Doing the exams towards the qualification provides valuable skills and knowledge which from my experience can be directly applied to the work we are required to perform during our audit placement.

My training qualification is very relevant to the work I do on placement. The books describe the techniques used in auditing and they are a valuable source of information and guidance to go back to even while you are during placement performing the work. In addition, we get copies of the IFRS and auditing standards, which are used every day.

PwC is a very social firm. We have networking events organised all the time as well as charity events/marathons/races. We have a badminton team and we have badminton, pool, table tennis and football championships. There are also quizzes every Friday and Pizza Tuesdays, so the opportunities to network are endless. What is more, interns are also encouraged to participate and even contribute towards the organising of these events!

Yes

PwC is a firm with a great culture and atmosphere. It offers many opportunities for career progression, you do not need to have a specific degree as all relevant training is provided to you before you join, you get tons of support and benefits and you have the opportunity to make really valuable connections.

Be honest. Show that you have the integrity which is key to working as an auditor and the firm's reputation. Show that you care about others and are willing to help with advice and coaching, and most importantly that you don't know everything but are super keen to learn!!!